New Chain Laws In Colorado: What Drivers Need To Know

Colorado's chain laws have changed. Just in time for the winter of 2024-2025 drivers wishing to cross the Rocky Mountains on I-70 will need to pay attention to a new boundary.

Traveling in Colorado during the winter means the possibility of needing to put on chains for both residential and commercial vehicles. Let's recap what is new, and what you need to know.

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Colorado's Chain Laws Explained

Our state’s chain law says that drivers need to have chains or approved traction devices on their vehicles when winter driving conditions make travel difficult. These laws help keep vehicles moving. The Colorado State Patrol specifies:

Passenger vehicles: All passenger vehicles, two-wheel, four-wheel, and all-wheel drive vehicles, require chains or ATDs on at least two drive tires.
Commercial vehicles: All commercial vehicles must have chains or ATDs on all drive tires.
Tires: Vehicles must have tires with a minimum tread depth of 3/16 in.
Auto Socks: Auto Socks are an alternative to chains that are easier to install

Penalties for Not Complying

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If Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) signs call for motorists to put on chains, this message will be relayed through electronic signs. The chain law applies to every state, federal, and interstate highway. This law applies from September 1st to May 31st. The $500 fine for non-compliance includes a $79 surcharge. If your vehicle is blocking traffic it's a $1000 fine and $157 surcharge.

How Has Colorado's Chain Law Changed?

This winter, Colorado expanded its chain law for commercial vehicles. Before 2024, chains were required on I-70 between Dotsero and Morrison during the snowy months. Now, the law requires chains on I-70 between Morrison and the Utah State Line. The law now includes additional highways, such as U.S. 40, U.S. 50 (Salida to the Utah State Line), U.S. 160, U.S. 285, U.S. 550, and parts of Highway 9.

Drivers can remove chains when electronic signs no longer display chain law information, or when they encounter bare pavement/clear roadways.

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